What is a mock CQC inspection?

A mock CQC inspection is a simulated inspection that replicates the real CQC inspection process. Our experienced consultants conduct a thorough assessment of your service to identify compliance risks and areas for improvement before your actual CQC inspection.

How long does a mock CQC inspection take?

The duration depends on the size and complexity of your service. We conduct a comprehensive assessment that mirrors the real CQC inspection process, followed by a detailed report with actionable recommendations.

What do I receive after a mock CQC inspection?

You receive a comprehensive inspection report that identifies compliance risks, highlights areas of strength, and provides a clear, prioritised improvement plan with actionable steps to address any issues found.

Who conducts the mock CQC inspection?

Our mock inspections are conducted by experienced care professionals with real-world experience in care provision and deep knowledge of CQC compliance requirements.

Mock CQC Inspection for Health & Social Care

Know where you stand before the inspector arrives

Our mock inspection simulates a real CQC visit, identifies your compliance gaps, and gives you a clear action plan to fix them.

Delivered by an experienced consultant
Detailed action plan included
Prices start at £1,250 + VAT*

*Prices may be higher for larger or more complex services.

What is a mock inspection

A mock inspection is a comprehensive review of your service, designed to mirror the process of a real CQC inspection. It identifies gaps, risks, and improvement areas before the regulator arrives, giving you time to correct issues and prepare effectively.

Why book a mock inspection?

Understand what the CQC looks for, and get an experienced view of where you currently sit

A prioritised action plan, so you know what to fix first

Fix issues before the CQC visits, not after

Prepare and reassure your team, so inspection day feels familiar, not frightening

Stay ahead of regulatory changes and current CQC expectations

What we assess during your inspection

Every mock inspection is tailored to your service type. Depending on your setting, we look at areas including:

Feedback and experience

Conversations with people using the service, families and carers
Review of complaints and compliments
Feedback from professionals who work with the service
Observations of staff interacting with people
Discussions with staff about care, treatment and culture

The environment and observed practice

Premises walkthrough
Infection prevention and control
Health and safety compliance
Observations of care and treatment delivery
Environment, equipment and safety arrangements
Medicines storage and management

Records

Care and clinical records including risk assessments
Medicines management and prescribing records
Safe recruitment, staff training and ongoing support
Accidents, incidents, near misses and significant events, including duty of candour, trend analysis and learning
Policies and standard operating procedures

Quality assurance

Systems in place to monitor and improve the service quality
Management oversight and governance arrangements
Defined leadership roles and responsibilities
Collaboration with regulators and professional partners
Reviewing the learning and improvement culture and how systems and processes support ongoing development

Our mock inspections are aligned to the way the CQC currently inspects. They are aimed at identifying areas of risk and non-compliance before the regulator shows up, and they also highlight good practice and innovation for your team to celebrate.

Reece Scott

Co-founder | Lead Compliance Consultant

Frequently asked questions

A mock inspection is comprehensive and simulates the full CQC process. A service health check is faster and more focused on specific areas.

That is fine. If you do not need a full mock inspection, we can carry out a focused review or look at a specific area or domain instead. Talk to us and we can tailor the scope and the price to what you need.

You receive a written report and a detailed, prioritised action plan setting out what we found and what to work through, so you know exactly where to focus.

Yes. As a separate piece of work, we can help you implement the improvements and fix the areas identified in the review, including coaching for your staff, updating care and clinical records, governance reviews, and more.

If you have not registered yet, start with our new provider support to build your foundations first. A mock inspection is best once you are up and running.

We can update them through our policy support service to ensure they are inspection-ready.

The on-site mock inspection typically takes 1-2 days depending on the size of your service. It may also involve some remote or off-site requests and reviews of records to support the process.

Yes. We operate under strict confidentiality and are fully insured.

Yes. We offer combined packages and ongoing compliance support plans.

Yes. We work with health and care providers including independent doctor services, private clinics and mental health services, as well as care homes, homecare and supported living. If you are unsure whether we cover your service type, get in touch and we will let you know.